Human trafficking is one of the world's most hidden and devastating crimes—and it's happening closer to home than many realize.In this episode of The Crude Truth, host Rey Trevino sits down with David Reid, CTO and CMO of NOV and founder of Red M, to discuss how he's using his platform in the energy industry to bring awareness to human trafficking and protect vulnerable children and families.We recommend connecting with David Reed on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidred/David shares the powerful mission behind Red M, how trafficking often begins through grooming and manipulation, and why education and awareness are the most important tools in preventing exploitation. He also discusses the organization's global growth, the launch of the Red Card United campaign during the 2026 World Cup, and how businesses and individuals can get involved.????️ In this episode:To learn more or get involved with Red M, visit JoinRedM.com and follow Red M on LinkedIn.1. Human Trafficking & Red M OrganizationThe primary focus of the episode is human trafficking awareness and prevention. David Reed, CTO and CMO of NOV and founder of Red M, discusses the organization's mission to combat human trafficking, particularly the grooming and exploitation of minors. Key points include:Red M operates 23-26 chapters across North America and the UKThe organization focuses on education and awareness rather than deep interventionThey've engaged over 6,000 volunteers in Houston alone over 8 years2. Grooming and Recruitment TacticsDavid explains how traffickers operate:Victims are typically groomed rather than forcibly takenTraffickers use cult-like techniques, sleep deprivation, and emotional manipulationThey isolate victims from families by convincing them "no one cares"The process typically targets mid-teens and can take yearsSpotters and controllers work in coordination to maintain control3. Warning Signs & IdentificationThe conversation covers how to recognize trafficking indicators:Behavioral changes in children (wrong crowd, suspicious relationships)Sleep deprivation and constant phone useIsolation from family and friendsThe importance of training parents and professionals to identify these signs4. Red M's Awareness CampaignsSeveral initiatives are discussed:Action Speaks Campaign: Care package building where people write encouraging notes to trafficking survivorsRed Card Campaign: Using World Cup football/soccer as a platform to raise awareness, with red cards symbolizing a "red card to trafficking"In-company training sessions at major corporations (Deloitte, HPE, Dell)Statistics showing that in groups of 30 people, typically 1 person has a child being groomed5. The World Cup 2026 PlatformDavid discusses leveraging the World Cup (hosted in North America) as an awareness opportunity:Red cards will be distributed at Houston Dynamo friendly gamesThe campaign uses the visual metaphor of a red card (player ejection) to represent stopping traffickingWebsite: redcardunited.com directs people to simple, accessible educationThe goal is to reach international audiences through football/soccer6. Funding & Volunteer ModelRed M's unique approach to operations:The organization operates entirely on volunteersThey actively discourage donations and focus on awareness insteadRecently secured $1.6 million from 35 oil and gas CEOs for an advertising campaignMoney is used for awareness campaigns and directed to survivor organizationsNo buildings or administrative overhead7. Oil & Gas Industry ConnectionThe episode emphasizes why Red M focuses on oil and gas communities:Oil and gas workers travel frequently to different citiesThis creates natural opportunities to establish chapters in new locationsThe industry has embraced the mission (Patterson UTI, SLB, Houston Airports involved)The platform allows industry leaders to use their influence for purpose8. Personal Motivation & PurposeDavid shares his journey:His wife initially got involved with anti-trafficking workRealizing the issue affected children motivated his deeper involvementHe views his platform at NOV as an opportunity to create positive changeThe work has become a "movement" rather than a forced initiativeThe episode emphasizes that human trafficking is a real, present danger affecting communities across North America, and that awareness and education are critical first steps in prevention.#TheCrudeTruth #DavidReid #RedM #HumanTraffickingAwareness #RedCardUnited #Leadership #OilAndGas #WorldCup2026 #PlatformForPurpose #EndHumanTrafficking #Podcast #EnergyIndustry #childprotection Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

This was a fun interview with Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne on my recent trip to Washington, DC. I had some great meetings, and she is doing great things for her constituents. 1. American Energy Independence & Oil ProductionThe interview emphasizes Texas's historical and ongoing role in American energy. It references the 1901 Spindletop discovery and argues that despite alternative energy sources (wind, solar, electric), America still fundamentally depends on oil. The discussion highlights the importance of supporting American oil producers and maintaining competitive global positioning.2. The Strait of Hormuz & Middle East ConflictCongresswoman Van Dyen discusses the geopolitical tensions affecting oil prices, particularly the conflict in the Middle East. She explains the administration's goals regarding preventing a terrorist regime (Iran) from obtaining nuclear weapons, while also emphasizing the desire to exit the conflict as soon as possible.3. Gas Prices & Economic ImpactThe interview addresses current high gas prices and their effect on consumers. However, Van Dyen points out that gas prices are actually lower now compared to the Biden administration, attributing this to increased American oil production and reduced regulatory barriers for producers.4. Tax Cuts & Regulatory ReformA significant focus is on the reconciliation bill that included tax cuts and regulatory reductions, specifically benefiting American energy producers. The congresswoman discusses plans for a second reconciliation package to continue this work and help people "keep more of what they make."5. Inflation & Wage GrowthThe discussion touches on inflation concerns and highlights a positive trend: wages are now outpacing inflation for the first time in years, which the administration aims to sustain.6. Capitol Hill Internships & Political EngagementThe interview concludes with a lighter discussion about young people entering politics through internships, emphasizing the value of Capitol Hill experience as a career foundation and networking opportunity.Follow Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne's work on her website https://vanduyne.house.gov/Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

In this episode of The Crude Truth, Rey Trevino sits down with DrillChem's Prater Vincent and Richard Collins to explore the critical role downhole technology plays in today's oil and gas industry.From drilling fluids and wellbore stability to lubrication systems and completion solutions, the conversation dives into how operators maximize production, reduce costs, and overcome increasingly complex drilling challenges. Richard also shares insights from nearly 30 years in the industry, including international experience, the future of U.S. energy production, and how global events are reshaping oil markets.Connect with Richard on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rtcollins/Connect with Prater Benson on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prater-benson-1a1656124/Check out DrillChem's Website: https://drillchem.com/Topics include:Why drilling the well correctly is more important than everHow drilling fluids impact well performanceCost-saving technologies operators are using todayChallenges in the Permian, Haynesville, and emerging basinsThe impact of Middle East disruptions on global oil supplyWhy U.S. shale technology continues to lead the worldDrillChem's domestic and international growth strategy1. Down-Hole Drilling Expertise & Well ConstructionThe episode centers on the critical importance of monitoring and managing the drilling process itself. The host emphasizes that proper well drilling is now more challenging than finding the oil, and that well completion and testing phases are essential to extracting hydrocarbons effectively.2. Drill Chem Company OverviewGuests Prater Bitz and Richard Collins from Drill Chem discuss their specialty chemical company that provides solutions for drilling challenges. They explain how Drill Chem is small enough to react quickly to customer needs but large enough to have their own R&D department and develop proprietary products rather than buying off-the-shelf solutions.3. Drilling Fluid Solutions & Well Bore StabilityThe conversation covers specific products like Terra Lock (a well bore strengthening material) and lubricants designed to reduce torque and enable extended reach drilling. These solutions address common industry challenges like well-bore instability, lost circulation, and narrow mud weight windows.4. Industry Capital Discipline in 2026Discussion about how major oil companies and operators are maintaining capital discipline despite high oil prices, focusing on planned drilling rather than aggressive expansion—a shift from historical boom-bust cycles.5. Geopolitical Impact on Oil MarketsA significant portion covers the Iranian conflict and its effects on global oil supply, including:Production shutdowns in Iran, Qatar, Kuwait, Iraq, and UAEThe challenge of restarting wells after prolonged shutdowns (chemical reactions, permeability changes)Global supply chain impacts including jet fuel shortagesThe role of the U.S. as a "swing producer" filling the global supply gap6. U.S. Oil & Gas Industry LeadershipThe hosts celebrate America's technological advancement in unconventional oil extraction (shale revolution), directional drilling, and hydraulic fracturing—positioning the U.S. as a global leader in both production and technology innovation.7. Drill Chem's Growth StrategyPlans for 2026-2027 include domestic expansion (new facilities in Midland and Williston) and significant international growth, including trials with Saudi Aramco and operations in Kuwait and China.8. Cost-Effectiveness & Operational EfficiencyEmphasis on finding the most cost-effective drilling solutions, shaving days off well operations, and addressing challenges in mature basins where "easy acreage" has been depleted.A fascinating conversation on the engineering, economics, and innovation driving the future of oil and gas.Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

Live from NAPE 2026, The Crude Truth welcomes Kasey Cox of Metal One America for a conversation on OCTG connections, supply chain shifts, deeper wells, and where drilling technology is headed in 2026.Kasey shares what operators are asking for today, how tariffs and commodity pricing are affecting steel markets, and why service companies are watching geothermal and lithium extraction as emerging opportunities.1. Metal One America & OCTG ConnectionsCasey Cox explains his role at Metal One America, a Japanese-owned company specializing in Oil Country Tubular Goods (OCTG) connections:They provide threaded, coupled, and flush connections for various well applications (intermediate, production casing, etc.)They sell intellectual property to distributors and licensees across the country who thread and couple the connectionsThe company ensures wells don't fail through quality connection productsRecently launched a new wedge connection product that increases torque capacity to 45,000 pounds, addressing deeper and more demanding wells2. Current Industry Landscape & Market ChallengesCasey discusses the unpredictable nature of the current market:Inconsistency: Every week brings something different that changes the industryTariffs & Commodity Rates: Steel tariffs and commodity pricing significantly affect operations and pricingMergers & Acquisitions: These deals can instantly change client relationships—a company can be a client one day and disappear the next after being acquiredConstant Adaptation: These changes keep service companies "on their toes"3. Diversification into Alternative Energy SourcesCasey highlights an important strategic shift:Oil and gas will never go away, but companies are branching into geothermal and lithium extractionService companies are exploring how to apply their existing technology and expertise to new energy sourcesThe key differentiator is people and knowledge—understanding how to transfer industry expertise to emerging energy sectorsThis helps mitigate the natural ebbs and flows of the traditional oil and gas market4. Well Technology EvolutionCasey emphasizes the changing demands on equipment:Wells are going deeper, longer, and fasterCompanies are pushing technological limitsNew products like the wedge connection are designed to handle increased torque levels (45,000 pounds)Growing demand for gas-tight connections due to increased activity in the Haynesville, Marcellus, and Utica shale plays5. Sales Approach & Problem-SolvingCasey discusses his sales philosophy:He uses a consultative approach—asking questions to understand client needs rather than just pitching productsHe describes it as the classic "sell me this pencil" approach: ask questions first, then provide solutionsHe acknowledges that engineers can be difficult to get to open up but are essential to understanding technical requirementsHis outgoing personality helps him find "that one little niche" to break through and solve problems collaboratively6. Professional Background & Career PathCasey shares his 20-year journey in the industry:Started in production (pipe, valves, and fittings for ~5 years)Moved to consulting, where he did rig calls regularlyNow at Metal One America for about a year, focusing on drilling and connectionsUpcoming trip to Midland with his manager and Japanese director to visit rigs and understand client needs firsthandSelf-described as a college dropout who relies on asking questions and learning from engineers7. Industry Culture & NetworkingThe conversation emphasizes the personal side of business:8. Contact & EngagementCasey provides multiple ways to connect:LinkedIn: His preferred method for professional outreachWebsite: mo-tc.com for information on Metal One's connectionsEmail: [email protected] https://www.linkedin.com/in/kasey-cox-50b29638/Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

Live from NAEP Expo 2026, Brent Franklin (CEO of Rise Capital) breaks down how deals, money, and opportunity collide in the oil & gas industry. From investing strategies to building relationships that change everything—this is where business gets done.Connect with Brent Franklin on his LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brent-franklin-606294193/If you're serious about energy, investing, or scaling your network… YOU need to hear this.Main Topics1. NAEP Expo 2026 OverviewThe episode is recorded live at the NAEP (North American Energy Professionals) Expo 2026, highlighting it as a major networking event where "deals happen." The host emphasizes the event's growth and recovery post-COVID, with increased business activity and deal-making opportunities.2. Rise Capital and Investment OpportunitiesBrent Franklin, President and CEO of Rise Capital, discusses his company's core business model:Private capital management connecting investors with opportunities in oil & gas, real estate, and alternativesA Reg D offering platform where investors can review and select specific projectsAn online portal allowing diversified investment without requiring day-to-day management3. Oil & Gas Investment StructuresThe conversation delves into different investment approaches:Working Interest: Direct ownership with unlimited liability but significant tax benefitsPDP (Proved Developed Producing) assets: Lower-risk investments in already-producing wellsTax deductions: IDC (Intangible Drilling Costs) and TDC (Tangible Drilling Costs) explained as key benefits under IRS code Section 4694. Tax Benefits in Oil & Gas vs. Real EstateA key distinction is made: oil & gas investments offer active tax deductions without requiring material participation (unlike real estate's 500-700 hour requirement), making them more attractive for passive investors seeking tax elimination rather than deferment.5. Rise Energy Group - Vertical Integration StrategyBrent explains his parent company's approach to consolidating smaller service businesses:Rolling up mom-and-pop service companies (drilling, well service, water transfer, wireline)Providing liquidity to companies with bad debt and high overheadCreating a debt-free, vertically integrated operation to reduce costs and improve efficiency6. Market Challenges & EconomicsDiscussion of current oil & gas market conditions:Low commodity prices ($60 oil, $3 gas) making projects less economicalRig count decline (from thousands 20 years ago to ~300 today)Break-even economics at $60/barrel, making cost reduction criticalFocus on shale production over exploration due to higher success rates7. Investment Philosophy & Risk MitigationKey principles emphasized:Diversification across multiple projects and asset classesImportance of operator quality and experienceMitigating risk rather than avoiding lossImportance of "skin in the game" for all parties involvedProduction and cash flow prioritized over tax deductions alone8. Networking & Relationship BuildingThe value of attending industry events like NAEP for:Meeting high-net-worth individuals and decision-makersFinding partnership opportunitiesBuilding relationships that lead to business dealsSurrounding yourself with quality people in the industryThis episode essentially serves as a deep dive into modern oil & gas investment strategies, emphasizing the importance of professional guidance, proper tax structuring, and strategic partnerships in the energy sector.Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

Live from NAPE 2026, this episode of The Crude Truth dives into the software and data side of the oil & gas industry with W Energy. Joined by Joe Fuda, Gary Napotnik, and Michael Tanner, we break down how modern energy companies are using cloud-based software, data analytics, and AI to streamline operations from field to finance.Check out W Energy https://wenergysoftware.com/Connect with Joe on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-fuda-420392127/Connect with Gary on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-surge/1. Oil & Gas Industry Overview & HistoryThe episode opens with a historical perspective on the oil industry, referencing the 1901 Spindletop discovery in Texas and how it shaped America's development. The hosts emphasize that despite alternative energy sources (wind, solar, electric), America still fundamentally depends on oil and the entrepreneurs who produce it.2. W Energy Software Platform & SolutionsThe core focus is on W Energy, a cloud-based software company providing integrated solutions for oil and gas operations. Key features discussed include:Field-to-Finance integration: Connecting field operations, ticketing, production management, and accounting under one platformData View: An analytics-ready tool that allows non-technical users to visualize and understand business data without needing data engineering expertiseAPIs and data accessibility: Balancing technical data access with user-friendly interfaces3. Operational Efficiency & Workflow StreamliningThe speakers emphasize how modern software should:Reduce manual efforts and repetitive tasksEmpower teams to focus on strategic analysis rather than report generationAdapt to evolving business needs as companies scaleAllow executives to understand operations without needing to know "how the sausage is made"4. AI Integration & Future TechnologyA significant discussion centers on:The emerging role of AI in oil and gas operationsHow AI can rapidly deploy use cases and provide real-time insightsThe potential for AI to transform decision-making and data consumption across the industryW Energy's AI roadmap for 20265. Data Security & Privacy ConcernsAn important theme is the tension between AI adoption and data protection:Concerns about proprietary data (P&Ls, completion techniques, surfactant formulas) being exposedThe need for private cloud or on-premises solutions rather than public cloud servicesInformation security challenges in the age of AIThe importance of keeping data "under one roof" to prevent competitive leakage6. Industry Evolution & KPI ManagementThe speakers discuss how:Metrics and KPIs change as companies scale (from 300 BOE/day to 100,000+ BOE/day operations)Software must be flexible enough to adapt to different business models and evolving prioritiesThe industry is becoming more efficient (producing 14+ million barrels/day with fewer rigs)7. NAPE 2026 Conference ContextThe episode is recorded at the NAPE (North American Petroleum Expo) 2026, highlighting:Industry networking and deal-making opportunitiesEmerging technologies and trends being showcasedThe role of digital currencies and AI in shaping the future of the industryThe overall theme is how integrated software platforms with AI capabilities are transforming oil and gas operations by making data more accessible, workflows more efficient, and decision-making more strategic—while maintaining critical data security.Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

Crude Oil Needs to Run Through Texas.Railroad Commissioner Jim Wright breaks down why Texas remains the backbone of American energy—and where the industry is headed next.Check out the Texas Railroad Commission Site: https://www.rrc.state.tx.us/about-us/commissioners/jim-wright/Key Points:• Texas produces ~43% of U.S. crude oil• Balancing environmental responsibility with economic growth• The Railroad Commission’s critical role in regulation• Why global demand is shifting toward Texas for stability• The future of produced water and new energy tech (like lithium & geothermal)• Challenges and opportunities with legacy wells• How oil & gas fuels Texas’ economy and state surplus1. The Railroad Commission of Texas & Its RoleThe episode centers on an interview with Jim Wright, the incumbent Railroad Commissioner. The discussion emphasizes that the Railroad Commission regulates the oil and gas industry in Texas, manages environmental standards, and is crucial to the state's $20+ billion annual surplus. Wright stresses that despite its outdated name (dating back to transportation regulation), the commission plays a vital role in balancing environmental responsibility with economic success.2. Texas Oil & Gas Production & Economic ImpactThe conversation highlights Texas's dominance in energy production:Texas produces 43% of U.S. crude oil and roughly 30% of natural gasCurrent production is 5.5 million barrels per dayThe industry generated $27 billion in state taxes last yearOil and gas employ over 500,000 people directly and support 2 million more jobs indirectly3. The Shale Revolution & Technological InnovationWright discusses how horizontal drilling and fracking technology transformed the industry, enabling extraction from tight formations. He emphasizes that technology changes constantly and regulations must adapt accordingly. Examples include auto-swabbing systems that revive dormant wells and new applications like lithium extraction and geothermal energy from legacy wells.4. Produced Water Management & Environmental ConcernsA significant portion focuses on produced water—the byproduct of oil extraction (approximately 5 barrels of water per barrel of oil). Key points include:Earthquake risks from deep injection of produced waterDrought conditions in West Texas creating water scarcityPilot programs treating produced water for agricultural use (wheat, alfalfa)Potential for extracting valuable minerals like uranium from produced water5. Senate Bill 1150 & Legacy Well RegulationsThe discussion covers upcoming regulations requiring old wells to be plugged or brought online by September 2027. Wright advocates for flexibility, noting that legacy wells may have future value through emerging technologies (lithium, geothermal) and shouldn't be permanently abandoned without exploring these opportunities.6. Market Stability & Global Energy DemandWright emphasizes that international demand for U.S. oil is surging due to America's political and economic stability. He advocates for marketing Texas oil globally and mentions increased tanker activity in the Gulf of Mexico, positioning Texas as a reliable energy source compared to unstable international alternatives.7. Election & Public EducationThe episode promotes Wright's candidacy for re-election (runoff on May 26th) and stresses the need for voter education about the Railroad Commission's importance. Wright argues that many voters don't understand what the commission does, making it vulnerable to candidates without relevant experience.8. Balancing Environmental & Economic ResponsibilityA recurring theme is the need to maintain both environmental stewardship and economic growth—treating this as a "win-win" rather than a trade-off.Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

In this episode of The Crude Truth, recorded live at NAPE 2026, Rey Trevino sits down with Leigh Haas, founder of Mockingbird Land Services, to discuss entrepreneurship, land rights, energy infrastructure, and the growing demand driven by AI and data centers. Working on - -Leigh shares how her background in politics, pipeline right-of-way, permitting, and safety training came together to launch her own company and why land services are becoming increasingly important across the Gulf South and beyond.Connect with Leigh on her LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leigh-haas-5b911473/1. Oil & Gas Industry OverviewThe episode opens with historical context about Texas oil production starting at Spindletop Hill in 1901, establishing that America's dependence on oil remains strong despite alternative energy sources. The conversation emphasizes that crude oil knowledge is essential for U.S. independence.2. Lee Haas's New Venture: Mockingbird Land ServicesLee Haas, the guest, recently launched his own land company about 8 months ago (3 weeks after NAPE). This is a first-year startup focused on providing comprehensive services in the energy sector.3. Convergence of ExpertiseLee brings a unique combination of backgrounds:Politics → Oil & Gas → Energy InfrastructureExtensive experience with natural gas pipelines, solar, wind, and other energy sourcesExpertise in right-of-way acquisitions, lease negotiations, title research, and safety training4. Mockingbird's Service OfferingsThe company operates as a "one-stop shop" providing:Regulatory review and permitting assistanceLegislative supportRight-of-way acquisition and negotiationSafety training for pipeline operations5. Geographic Focus & ExpansionPrimary focus: Gulf South region (Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas)Lee is a seventh-generation Mississippian with historical family ties to the stateCompany has worked in 40 states and is willing to expand nationally6. Key Client MarketsData Centers (8 being built in Mississippi alone)Electric utility companiesTransmission line projectsNatural gas pipeline infrastructure7. Legislative & Regulatory ChallengesA major focus is expedited permitting processes. Despite deregulation efforts, bureaucratic delays persist, particularly in Mississippi where state officials may lack awareness of how the permitting process works.8. AI & Technology in the IndustryLee discusses AI's role in the right-of-way industry:AI won't replace landmen in negotiationsAI can improve title accuracy (which he argues is more critical than engineering mishaps)Lee humorously notes AI makes him "procrastinate efficiently"9. Personal Interests: Elvis PresleyA lighter segment where Lee reveals his passion for Elvis Presley, discussing upcoming documentaries and his status as a "seventh-generation Mississippian" and "original Mississippi rule breaker" connection to Elvis's hometown of Tupelo.10. Business Networking & GrowthThe episode emphasizes NAPE as a networking platform and Lee's multi-podcast appearance strategy to build brand awareness for Mockingbird Land Services.Overall Theme: The episode showcases how specialized expertise in energy infrastructure, combined with regulatory knowledge and land acquisition skills, creates business opportunities in America's ongoing energy development.Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

Live from NAPE 2026, Cool Edge Drill Bits reveals breakthrough technology that’s extending bit life, improving wellbore quality, and saving operators serious money.Special Guests Jim McCoy and Trey Poteet, with Cool Edge Bits, and this is how we get more out of each well drilled. With the global energy crisis at hand, we need to save money on every well drilled. Connect with Trey https://www.linkedin.com/in/trey-poteet/Check out Cool Edge Bits https://www.cooledgebits.com/Fewer trips. Better performance. Real results.This might be the future of drilling.1. Cool Edge Drill Bits & Hydraulic Technology InnovationThe primary focus of this episode centers on Cool Edge Drill Bits, a new company revolutionizing drill bit technology. The key innovation is a patented hydraulic cooling system that directs fluid flow directly at the cutting edge to keep it cool. This extends drill bit lifespan significantly—allowing operators to complete sections with 1-2 bits instead of 3-5, resulting in substantial cost savings (over $200,000 mentioned for one well).2. The Expertise Behind the InnovationThe discussion highlights Dr. Anatoly Borisov, a world-renowned hydraulics expert with 15 patents on rocket engine cooling systems. His expertise in fluid flow, physics, and hydrodynamics was applied to solve the drill bit cooling problem. The team combines Anatoly's hydraulics knowledge with Trey's CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and FEA (Finite Element Analysis) capabilities.3. Operational Benefits & Real-World ResultsThe guests share concrete advantages of their technology:Improved cutter sharpness and longer bit lifeBetter well-bore quality due to smaller cuttings evacuationReduced balling (clogging) in the wellFaster drilling speeds (improved Rate of Penetration)Proven results in challenging formations like the Marcellus Shale (PA) and Travis Peak Formation (East Texas)4. Company Capabilities & Customer ServiceCool Edge Drill Bits emphasizes their agility as a smaller company, offering:Custom designs tailored to specific applicationsQuick turnaround on new designsLocally manufactured products using premium materialsApplication engineers with extensive industry experienceFull size range offerings5. Industry Context & Energy IndependenceThe episode opens with historical context about Texas oil production since Spindletop (1901) and emphasizes America's continued dependence on oil, positioning the innovation as crucial to energy independence and economic growth. The world has only become more reliant on Energy through oil and gas. Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

In this episode of The Crude Truth, we sit down with oil & gas trial attorney Lauren Varnado to uncover the realities of litigation in the energy industry.From high-stakes courtroom battles to the rise of litigation funding, Lauren shares insider knowledge on how companies protect themselves, when they should take legal action, and the biggest risks facing oil & gas today.Connect with Lauren Varnado on her LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-varnado-7b5b7761/1. Oil & Gas Litigation and Legal PracticeLauren Varnado, a trial lawyer specializing in oil and gas law, discusses her 15-year career focused on litigation in the energy sector. She emphasizes the importance of litigation in the industry and her role as a "first chair" trial lawyer who leads courtroom proceedings while mentoring younger attorneys.2. Litigation FundingA major focus of the conversation is litigation funding — a relatively new financial mechanism where private equity-backed companies fund litigation costs for businesses. This allows companies to pursue lawsuits without bearing the financial risk of losing, making it particularly valuable for smaller producers who can't afford expensive litigation. If they win, the funder shares in the settlement; if they lose, the client isn't financially harmed.3. Challenges Facing Oil & Gas CompaniesLauren highlights several key issues:Permitting delays — Federal permitting processes are too slow and create bottlenecksRegulatory pressures — EPA regulations, Clean Air Act compliance, and SEC subpoenasRisk mitigation — Companies' hesitancy to file lawsuits due to shareholder concerns4. Regional Legal LandscapesThe discussion covers litigation in key oil and gas regions, particularly:West Virginia — Home to the Marcellus Shale play with significant gas reservesTexas — The traditional oil and gas hubNew Mexico — An emerging area of interest5. Judicial Corruption and System IntegrityLauren shares a dramatic story about a West Virginia judge who pointed a gun at her during trial, highlighting broader issues of judicial misconduct, juror dishonesty, and conflicts of interest that can undermine fair legal proceedings.6. Energy Infrastructure and AIThe conversation touches on emerging challenges related to data centers and AI infrastructure, which create new energy demands and represent uncharted legal territory requiring future litigation.7. Industry Outlook for 2026Lauren discusses positive developments under the new administration, including:Weakening of certain EPA regulationsExpedited permitting processesPotential for common sense returning to courtroomsThis episode essentially serves as a guide for small and mid-sized oil and gas companies on how to navigate litigation strategically and protect their interests.Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/